POST FALLS - Items from at least 17 vehicles in Post Falls were stolen over the weekend in apparent quick-grab burglary sprees, according to police.

Eleven auto burglaries were reported in the Pioneer Ridge subdivision north of Poleline Avenue and east of Chase Road Friday and early Saturday.

Six thefts were then reported in the area of Majestic View Drive near the factory outlets and Spokane River late Saturday and early Sunday.

"All of the vehicles were unlocked," Post Falls police Capt. Greg McLean said. "Anything that was loose and they wanted to take - including fishing gear, first aid kits, a camera, wallets, tool boxes and a gun - they took it."

Police are investigating whether the two sprees are related.

Austin M. Scarborough, 18, Post Falls, was arrested for providing a false identity to a police officer early Sunday after a resident reported seeing a male on foot checking door handles on parked cars and a vehicle driving slowly down the street on Majestic View.

Scarborough was short of breath when he was questioned and is believed to be the person who was reported running toward a vehicle, according to police.

McLean said Scarborough, who denied stealing anything from vehicles, could face additional charges. He was on felony probation and listed as a missing person.

The male driver and another male passenger in the vehicle were not arrested. They denied being a part of any crime activity, according to the police report.

"(The two) stated that they were in the area to pick up Austin who had called them and asked for a ride," the report states.

Several items that were believed to have been stolen - including gloves, flashlights and knives - were removed from the vehicle by police. Police asked the male driver and other male passenger to identify items inside the vehicle that weren't theirs.

A tool box and pair of leather gloves were returned to the alleged victims, McLean said.

An investigation continues. Those with information are urged to contact Post Falls Police at 773-3517 or leave a tip at www.postfallspolice.com.